Daniel Farke could sanction Leeds exit after what Ilia Gruev did vs Nottingham Forest
Ilia Gruev was the star of the show for Leeds United as they beat Nottingham Forest 3-1 on Friday evening.
Daniel Farke has relied on the Bulgarian lately, and he repaid the faith with a magnificent display against Sean Dyche’s side.
The 25-year-old notched two assists and misplaced just one of his 44 pass attempts for a 98 per cent pass completion against the Reds, per Sofascore.
It was a must-win game for the Whites, given their proximity to the relegation zone before kick-off, but Gruev‘s showing may have negative implications for another member of the squad.
Why Gruev’s showing could see Ao Tanaka leave Leeds
Ao Tanaka was linked with a Leeds exit in the winter window, with Turkish side Galatasaray showing interest.
That may well be rekindled in the summer, especially if Tanaka continues to be out of the side, in favour of the former Werder Bremen ace.
Gruev’s form could spell the end for the 35-cap international, as he will surely not be happy about the lack of minutes.
Tanaka has featured for a total of 45 minutes in the last seven Premier League matches, and he did not come off the bench in the last two games.
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Leeds need to keep faith in Tanaka
Tanaka is a Rolls-Royce when he is at his best, and he has looked like a top-flight midfielder several times this season, but he is not consistent enough.
He just needs to wait for his chance and then take it, when he is handed the next opportunity to showcase his talent.
The man signed for £3.3million from Fortuna Dusseldorf was a revelation last season as the Peacocks secured promotion, but he has not found his form enough at the top level.
| Stats | Tanaka (24/25) |
| Matches | 43 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 2 |
The Whites need to ensure him that the absence is temporary, or they may find that he will force his way out in the near future.
He still has a part to play in the remainder of the campaign, he and the club just need to keep faith in each other.
Ethan Ampadu and Gruev are in too good form to drop at the moment, but there will be chances in the business end for Tanaka to prove himself, he just has to be patient.